Dear Students,
Due to the recent outbreak of the novel (new) coronavirus COVID-19, the school understands that students may have concerns. In response to the recent environment, the school has taken the following actions:
- Posted information around the school regarding safe health practice, in different languages; sent email to all students regarding recent travel
- Increased and intensified school and classrooms cleanings throughout the day, including disinfecting the floors, and sanitizing common areas and classrooms.
- Provided hand sanitizer on both 6thand 8th floors. The hand sanitizer is for use during school time and students are encouraged to purchase their own for personal use.
- Opening windows to allow for improved circulation
The school is continuously monitoring the news from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), New York State/City Department of Health, and other relevant organizations.
We would like to remind students that they should not panic, as the risk to New Yorkers of contracting this novel coronavirus is still low, and to continue to follow advice from both the CDC and the Department of Health:
-Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing - do not use your hands.
-Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
-Do not touch your face with unwashed hands.
-Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces Stay home if you are not feeling well.
If students are not feeling well, we recommend consulting a medical professional. If necessary, school absences may be excused with a valid doctor’s note.
An Important Note about Face Masks:
Since our students come from all over the world, it is normal to see differences in viewpoints. In East Asian countries, it is normal for the general population to use face masks all year round, for precautionary reasons (and is a sign of social responsibility). In other countries, such as the US, face masks are not commonly used by the general population, and are usually used in medical reasons only. Health care professionals in the US usually recommend a face mask for people who are sick or have symptoms (such as coughing or sneezing).
If a student wishes to wear face masks at school, the school will respect his or her wish to do so. At the same time, the decision to wear a face mask is personal to the student, and we also respect the wishes of any student who decides not to wear one.
During this evolving situation, we hope that all students can understand the unique circumstances, and work with each other to create a continued learning environment for all.
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